During the 1890s, this community thrived, temporary tent hotels and log stores were gradually replaced by elegant structures, transforming Nelson from a rugged mining camp into the "Queen City of the Kootenays." The gully that once divided Baker Street was bridged in 1890, linking the refined west end with the somewhat less reputable east end. By 1897, when Nelson was officially incorporated, Baker Street boasted a vibrant array of hotels, banks, and stores, and within two years, a streetcar service was established. Though the rapid growth of those early years has subsided, the architectural gems of the 1890s still line Baker Street, lending a historic charm to the city. Today, Baker Street remains a bustling historic downtown center, offering a wealth of restaurants, shops, and attractions that delight both tourists and residents alike, defining the heart of Nelson.